Going to paint up for the game? Dos and Don'ts for the right look

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – First round of the playoffs … one day after Halloween … hmmm, it looks like some face and body paint could come out in full force tonight and Saturday.

If you’re going there, do it right. There are dos and don’ts to looking good when you paint up for a game. Some things work, others not so much.

Here are five tips from someone whose seen his share of painters:

Teamwork is good

A united front is great, but you can never let a letter stray. Ever. (MLive file photo)

Always a good look when a name is spelled out. Classy. United. Determined. But there’s high risk, too. Nothing worse than when a letter leaves to visit a friend. If you’re a “Red Arrow” the “A” can’t step back even a moment. Otherwise it is a “Redrrow” and you know somebody will post it online.

Save your neck

Law: Don't paint the neck. (MLive file photo)

Painting up can be pretty awesome, but don’t do the neck. Just don’t. The sinking-in-quicksand look. Or a giraffe. Neither is good.

Gotta do the pits

Sure, it's uncomfortable, but have to do the armpits. (MLive file photo)

Always a difficult call, but a necessity unless you don’t plan to raise your arms and, c’mon, it’s a football game and you’re painted. Find a friend who will do the dirty and get ‘er done and feel complete.

Go awesome

The big leagues. (AP file photo)

Most important, paint and be proud. (MLive file photo)

This stars and stripes look isn’t from a high school game but gives you an idea of what the big leagues are like. Pretty cool, eh?

Have fun

If you’ve decided to paint your face or body, you will stand out. Be loud, be proud and have fun. That’s what fans are supposed to do anyway, right?

Tips: Seriously, if you’re going to pain your face or body, don’t use craft paint. There are tubes of face/body cream paint available, and make sure its non-allergenic. The best place to prepare is in the parking lot if you’re doing body paint. Otherwise, someone’s car interior will be trashed. Also, bring extra towels, wipes and spare wash cloth. You’ll thank yourself later.